How to Determine a Dog's Age

If you've taken in a homeless dog, you probably don't have much information about his background. There are ways to determine a dog's age, and the information can help you to care for him.

Instructions

Teeth

1. Examine the dog's teeth. Dogs should have all their permanent teeth in by the time they are 7-months old. If his teeth are clean and white, he is likely a 1-year old or younger.

2. Check for yellowing on the dog's back teeth. If this discoloring is present, your dog may be between 1 and 2.

3. Look for tartar build-up and some tooth wear on the dog's teeth. If this is present at a minimal level, your dog is likely 3 to 5.

4. Inspect the dog's teeth for evidence of disease and a more substantial amount of wear and tartar presence. If this is the case, your dog may be anywhere from 5 to 10.

5. Determine if the dog has some teeth missing, heavy tartar build-up and severe wear. If this is the case, your dog is likely over 10 and needs senior dog level veterinary care.

Other Physical Aspects and Behavior

1. Look at the dog's snout. If she is developing white hair around her nose and whiskers, this dog probably is 7-years old or older.

2. Examine your dog's eyes and feel his coat and skin. If the eyes are opaque and his skin is somewhat greasy to the touch, he may be an older dog.

3. Evaluate the dog's behavior. Signs of old age may include avoiding going up stairs, stretching more often and a low level of interest in playing.